-- Looking at the printout, I agree with what you've said. The image quality
of this poster is outstanding. What's the primary factor behind the higher resolution? Hosokawa What does L-COA do for superior image quality? To put it simply,
I'd say it converts computer-generated image data to print data very quickly, takes a number of different conditions
into account, and determines the optimal dot configuration.-- What do you mean by "optimal"? Yoshida Development of the W8400 included color profile design; however,
in developing the new models, we investigated how printers could make all kinds of adjustments dynamically,
based on an array of information, including paper, ink, and other parameters. Under "optimal control," the
printer takes all of these factors into account.Hosokawa Although it's easy to say it's "high-resolution" printing,
the process actually involves lots of conditions. Computer data is converted into print data inside the L-COA
unit, and while this is happening, intricate image processing is executed multiple times. I can't discuss the
details, but the basic idea is that data is generated for the optimal dot configuration, from the standpoint
of what method of ink application will be most pleasing to the human eye.
We don't want sharp edges in all cases. (Hosokawa)
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-- Specific examples would be sharpening black text or improving visibility
of text against colored backgrounds, right? Hosokawa That's right. For example, enhancing the edges of text makes
the text crisper and easier to read. But we don't want sharp edges in all cases, particularly when printing
images.-- True. This would be undesirable for pictures with lots of tonal gradation.
It might produce contours or lead to banding when gradations aren't smooth. The results wouldn't look good. Yoshida And for CAD output, printing crisp lines requires various functions
that adjust the impact of the ink droplets. We wound up increasing the image processing capacity five times
over previous levels to accomplish it. But implementing this high-precision control over a wide area at high
speed - in other words, achieving the highest-precision nozzle control in the industry - that's
something conventional processors couldn't do. Here's where we see the unique advantages of L-COA.-- Hmm...the highest-precision control in the industry. You mean, in the
large-format printer industry? Yoshida Actually, even regular inkjet printers don't offer control
at this level of precision.-- Really? Precision better than regular inkjet printers? That's what
sets the image quality apart. Now I understand. |